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Reliable football journalist Fabrizio Romano has claimed that Manchester City are set to offer their skipper Ilkay Gundogan a new deal amid links with Barcelona.
Gundogan has been strongly rumored to be on his way out of Etihad in recent months with Camp Nou looking like the most likely destination. However, Barcelona's hopes of landing the five-time Premier League winner could be dashed with Manchester City set to offer their star man a new deal.
As claimed by Romano, the Sky Blues are set to hand Gundogan a new deal until June 2024 with an option for further season, potentially June 2025. He has also confirmed that the Blaugrana have already made their offer to the midfielder but the German is yet to make up his mind.
Gundogan has been strongly linked with a move to Barcelona in recent months with Xavi Hernandez being a huge admirer of the 32-year-old. It was earlier reported that Gundogan wanted a longer deal and was very happy with Barca's three-year offer.
However, Manchester City are now believed to be keen to hold onto their captain following his wonderful displays this season, especially in the last few weeks.
Gundogan has been a key player for the club since joining the club in 2016 in a deal worth £20 million. He has already won 12 trophies during his time at the Etihad including five Premier League titles.
Gundogan, who currently dons the armband, has made 301 appearances for the Cityzens over the years, scoring 58 goals and providing 40 assists. He has scored nine goals and registered seven assists in 48 games across competitions this season.
Barcelona boss Xavi reacts to UCL semi-final between Real Madrid and Manchester City
Barcelona manager Xavi claimed that Manchester City were deserved winners in their Champions League tie with Real Madrid. The Sky Blues came up with an emphatic 4-0 win at the Etihad on Wednesday, May 17, to win the semifinal 5-1 on aggregate.
Asked to share his thoughts on the match, Xavi he claimed that City were deserved winners on the night. Speaking at a recent press conference, the Barcelona boss said (via Barca Universal):
“For the Cules it must have been a joy, but as professionals, we give a lot of importance to La Liga. The value is not that Madrid lose, the value is to see the joy of the fans. Man City were deserved winners in the semi-finals. For me, they are the best team in the world.”
Pep Guardiola's Manchester City side are looking to complete a historic treble this season. They have already secured the Premier League title and have also made it to the FA Cup and Champions League finals.
